Part 38 (1/2)

Is it well, O my Soul, is it well?

In silent aisles of sombre tone Where phantoms roam, thou dwell'st apart In drear alone.

Where serpents coil and night-birds dart Thou liest p.r.o.ne, O Heart, my Heart, In dread unknown.

O Soul of Night, surpa.s.sing fair, Guide this poor spirit through the air, And thus atone ...

This sad Soul, searching for the light....

O Soul of Night, enstarred bright, s.h.i.+ne over all.

Enforce thy right to fend for us Extend thy power to fight for us Raise thou night's pall.

Ensteep our minds in loveliness In all sweet hope and G.o.dliness Give guard o'er all ...

This brave Soul striving in stern fight....

Thou soul of Night, thou spirit-elf, Rise up and bless.

Help us to cleanse in holiness Show how to dress in saintliness Our weary selves, Expurge our deeds of earthiness Expunge desires of selfliness Rise up and bless ...

This strong Soul dying in such plight....

Night gently spreads her wings and flies Star-laden, wide across the skies.

My Soul, new strong, So late enstained with earthly dust So long estranged in wander-l.u.s.t Gives praise and song, Strives to create in morning light The starry wonders of the night In praise and song ...

This strong Soul praising in new right.

It is well, O my Soul, it is well....

A. L. WREN.

[Footnote 1: Store-room.]

[Footnote 2: Footman and male ”housemaid”.]

[Footnote 3: Gardener.]

[Footnote 4: Groom.]

[Footnote 5: Real, solid, permanent, proper, ripe, genuine.]

[Footnote 6: Anna = a penny.]

[Footnote 7: Strong, powerful chief.]

[Footnote 8: Gra.s.s-man.]

[Footnote 9: Carriage.]